Nicor Gas offers cold-weather safety and savings tips

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Jan. 25, 2021 – As temperatures drop and snowfall is expected throughout much of its northern Illinois service territory, Nicor Gas is providing winter weather tips to stay warm, safe and save money with energy efficiency tools and resources.

In the event of inclement weather, it’s important to check that outdoor vent openings and air intakes are not obstructed by snow and ice to ensure the safe, proper operation of natural gas appliances, such as a furnace or water heater, and to prevent the potentially hazardous buildup of carbon monoxide within your home or business.

Exercise caution removing snow or ice from your natural gas meter assembly. Use your hands or a broom, not a shovel, to brush away snow or ice from your meter and regulator. Never kick or hit your gas meter or its piping with a hammer or other hard object to break away built-up snow or ice.

Heavy snow and ice may weigh down power lines and tree limbs, causing them to fall. If a natural gas meter is damaged or underground gas line is exposed, immediately leave the area and call 911 or the 24-hour emergency response line 888.Nicor4U (642.6748) from a safe location.

“Customers can be assured that the reliability and resiliency of Nicor Gas’ distribution system will allow the safe and continued delivery of affordable natural gas, no matter the weather,” said John O. Hudson III, president and CEO of Nicor Gas. “And with proper weatherization and safety precautions, homes and businesses can enjoy the reliable warmth of natural gas while saving money.”

Little changes can add up to big savings with these weatherization tips:

• Regularly replace air and furnace filters; most filters should be cleaned or replaced every 60-90 days. A clean filter will allow the system to run more efficiently.
• Open window coverings during the day to allow sunlight to heat your home naturally, and close curtains at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.
• Keep furniture, drapes, stuffed animals and other objects away from heating sources.
• Adjust timer controls and programmable thermostats. Some older thermostats may not have an internal clock and need to be adjusted manually.
  

For more ways to save, visit nicorgas.com/waystosave.

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